Safety Never Takes a Holiday: Leadership Tips to Help You Protect Your Team this Season

A Leadership Message for the Season

For business leaders, December can be a balancing act. The end of the year can mean racing to hit year-end targets, preparing for next year, and juggling the personal and workplace disruptions that come with the holidays. At the same time, employees may be stretched thin, distracted, or fatigued.

That’s why it’s important that you reinforce the important core principle: safety never takes a holiday.

Leaders who put safety first during this busy season can not only help reduce risks, but also help strengthen trust, protect their people, and position their organizations for a stronger start to the new year.

Where Leaders Make the Difference

Set the Example:
Employees can often feel pressure to finish everything before the year ends, but this can sometimes lead to rushing and shortcuts. Show that nothing is more important than safe work, even under deadlines.
Address Fatigue and Short Staffing:
Holiday schedules may mean fewer people on the job or longer hours. Make sure responsibilities align with training and keep an eye on team energy levels to prevent mistakes.
Celebrate Wisely:
Company gatherings should be fun and safe. Use extreme caution regarding whether and when to serve alcohol. Offer transportation options if alcohol is served and emphasize that drinking and safety-sensitive functions never mix.
Stay Ahead of Seasonal Hazards:
From wet floors and icy parking lots to tangled holiday lighting extension cords, this season brings extra risks. Encourage teams to keep walkways clear, check cords, and leave exits unobstructed.
Recognize Stress:
The holidays bring joy, but they can also add stress. Remind employees about any wellness resources that may be available.
Close the Year with a Thank You:
Share stories and encourage employees to reflect on how distracted driving could impact their loved ones.

Holiday Safety in the Workplace

Along with strong leadership, practical holiday workplace safety precautions can help keep everyone safe during the season of celebrations.

Holiday Decorations

Keep indoor and outdoor light strings separate. Discard any with cracks, exposed wires, or loose connections.
Only use extension cords in accordance with their rating.
Avoid running cords through walkways to prevent tripping hazards, as well as under rugs or through windows and doors to avoid damage, overheating, or electrical shock risks.
Unplug decorations at the end of each day.
Never use open flames (candles should always be prohibited).
Ensure decorations don’t block doorways, walkways, exit signs, or stairwells.
Use flame-retardant or non-combustible materials only.

Food Safety

Refrigerate perishable food promptly and avoid leaving it out for long periods.
Use serving utensils, even for “finger foods.”
Clearly label items, especially those containing peanuts or other allergens.

Changing Conditions Outdoors

Weather can shift quickly this time of year — stay alert to local forecasts.
With daylight savings time, it’s getting darker earlier. Make sure your lights work and adjust your driving habits as needed.
Travel planning: Anticipate increased holiday traffic. Leave early, build in extra time, and avoid rushing or speeding. Stay focused behind the wheel and watch for distracted drivers.

Acrisure can help.

Leaders can have an influence over whether December is a safe month. By setting expectations, modeling responsibility, and reinforcing appreciation, you can help prevent incidents and strengthen your safety culture, carrying momentum into the year ahead.

At Acrisure, we believe the best gift you can give your team this season is clear, steady leadership that ensures everyone goes home safely to their families. We appreciate your commitment to keeping each other safe and thank you for your partnership and trust in us.

If you have any questions about how to help ensure your team stays safe during this time of the year and always, please reach out to your Acrisure client advisor or contact us if you’d like to learn more about Acrisure Risk Resources.

About the Author

Brian Fielkow

Acrisure Risk Resources